The old saying “out of sight, out of mind” still rings true to this day, particularly with customer relations and marketing strategies for your business. It’s glaring that many traditional methods of marketing are outdated and not worth the effort, however promotional products are not one of them. So how exactly do you ensure that your brand is at the forefront of your consumer’s mind every single day in a world dominated by new age marketing? Let’s explore why promotional products are essential to your business and how to implement it into your marketing mix.
1. Increase Brand Recognition
The goal for any marketing plan, whether you are a small business or a larger enterprise is to increase brand recognition and stand out from your fellow competitors. Promotional products are a tangible way to apply your logo onto items that your customers will use every single day. The consumer will be continuously reminded of the brand, whether it is on a conscious level or not – it also show your customers how much you value and appreciate them, not only boosting brand recognition but also brand loyalty. It gives your brand more personality and presence, because really… Who doesn’t love a gift every now and then?
2. High Exposure, Low Cost
Let’s face it; marketing your business can get expensive over time. Between the digital space, TV, radio and print it certainly starts to slowly add up. If you consider the use of promotional products you will be surprised at just how affordable it can be, for remarkably successful exposure. It is a cost effective way to successfully get the most bang for your buck. Manufacturers keep prices low for mass production of promo products, but the impact is very high as many people will pass your products on to several others, reducing the cost per product sold, relative to the exposure you will gain.
3. Like a Business Card… But Better
Business cards will always be a valuable business staple, but think of the last time you got one. Chances are it’s probably resting in the crevice of your wallet along with several others you have received over the years but never utilised. Bottom line: They don’t stand out in a unique way, so don’t be a company to fall victim to dullness – utilise the usefulness of a physical product that your target market will actually use, and allow your customers to become a public ambassador for your brand. Statistics show that 6 out of 10 people will keep a branded pen for up to 2 years, so keep that in mind!
4. Marketing Mix
What is a marketing mix you might be asking? Simply put, it is a combination of several factors that influence a customer’s decision on whether or not they will purchase a product. The four main factors are easy to remember, just think of the 4 p’s; Product, Price, Place and Promotion. In a nutshell, you want to have the right product, at the right price, in the right place and promoted correctly.
Don’t make decisions for your promotional products based off what YOU like, make sure you thoroughly do your research and make sure you get the products right. What will they actually benefit from using every day? These days promotional offers usually come in the form of links, offers or discount codes, it’s very easy to forget that humans crave physical things they can actually touch and feel – the resurfacing of old school vinyl records is a perfect example of this! Think about your target market and really try to hone in on what they would actually use over and over again – Think pens, water bottles and coffee mugs.
Once you have determined what products your consumers will enjoy, make sure you ensure the quality of product is of a high standard. The products you are distributing are a direct reflection of your company, so why would you want to give anyone a product that is going to fall apart after 2 or 3 uses?
